What is the best airport?

Philadelphia International (PHL) is the closest major airport.

It is moderately priced compared to major coastal cities.

What is the weather like?

Four distinct seasons with cold winters.

Merrillville

Wilmington

Flight Driving

Merrillville to Wilmington

Updated: 28 May 2026

To travel from Merrillville to Wilmington, you can drive east via I-80 and I-95, a journey of approximately 12 hours. Alternatively, fly from Chicago O'Hare to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and take a train or car to Wilmington. Wilmington is a historic city known for its riverfront and corporate presence.

Total Distance: 1,200 km driving, 1,050 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Direct flight from Chicago O'Hare to PHL.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the most cost-effective for groups.

Compare Merrillville to Wilmington Routes

	Flight Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 15 mins	12 hours
Avg Price	$150-$400	$150-$300 in fuel
Operator	United Airlines	Personal Vehicle
Route	ORD to PHL	I-80 E to I-95 S through Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.
Tip	PHL is the closest major airport to Wilmington.	I-95 has significant tolls; keep an E-ZPass.

Travel Tips

Walking
Downtown Wilmington is walkable; wear comfortable shoes.
Dining
Wilmington has a variety of restaurants; explore the riverfront area.
Public Transit
The DART bus system is efficient for getting around the city.
History
Take a tour of the historic sites to learn about Wilmington's past.
Weather
Winters can be cold and snowy; dress in layers.

Safety Tips

Area Awareness
Stick to well-lit areas in downtown and tourist districts.
Emergency
Dial 911 for emergencies; Wilmington has a responsive emergency response network.
Driving
Wilmington streets can be confusing; use a GPS.
Valuables
Do not leave valuables visible in your car.